Explosions heard across border island likely tied to N. Korea's coastal reinforcement: S. Korean military

What happened: South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said explosion sounds heard from the northern side of Ganghwa Island appear tied to North Korea reinforcing coastal security facilities. NHK reported demolition and border fortification work near the island. Key numbers: Reports dated Oct. 13; NHK report the previous day. Why it matters: The JCS said it is closely monitoring related movements. Ganghwa Island is one of the closest islands to the Military Demarcation Line and an area where North Korean mines often wash ashore after heavy rains.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said explosion sounds heard from the northern side of Ganghwa Island appear tied to North Korea reinforcing coastal security facilities. NHK reported demolition and border fortification work near the island.

The JCS said it is closely monitoring related movements. Ganghwa Island is one of the closest islands to the Military Demarcation Line and an area where North Korean mines often wash ashore after heavy rains.